Why a Scottish law firm has been named partner of cup winners Aberdeen FC

Scottish Cup winners Aberdeen FC, fresh from their historic Hampden triumph, have struck a deal to make Balfour + Manson the club's official legal partner.

The partnership deal gives the firm a profile boost in the north-east, and taps into a loyal and engaged group of supporters.

The Dons triumphed in a Scottish Cup final for the first time in 35 years last week after Dimitar Mitov's penalty shootout heroics against Celtic.

Balfour + Manson will offer legal expertise and services to fans across a whole range of issues and supporters will be able to benefit from access to trusted advice and support including through legal advice clinics.

The tie-up and its proposed benefits to fans come at a time where challenges to accessing justice and legal support across Scotland continue to arise.

"We are absolutely thrilled to become the Official Legal Partner of Aberdeen Football Club”, said Julie Clark-Spence, Partner at Balfour+Manson.

“This partnership not only strengthens our presence in the Granite City - particularly as we celebrate our 21st anniversary of our Aberdeen office - but also opens exciting opportunities to connect with the club's loyal supporters and the wider North-east community.

“At Balfour+Manson, people are at the heart of what we do. We look forward to working closely with Aberdeen FC and offering our expertise to fans across a range of legal services. It’s an exciting time for both the firm and the club, and we’re very proud to support the team as their Official Legal Partner."

Commenting on the new partnership, Gary Herbert, Business Development Manager at Aberdeen FC said: “We are thrilled to welcome Balfour+Manson to the AFC family. This partnership is a fantastic opportunity to connect our supporters with a reputable and highly regarded legal firm.

“We value their commitment to the local community and believe this collaboration will be mutually beneficial, offering valuable resources to our fanbase while further strengthening Balfour and Manson’s presence in Aberdeen.”

Law and football collaboration in the UK

Earlier this year, a blockbuster agreement between Everton FC and law firm Hill Dickinson secured naming rights for the club's new £800 million stadium.

The 52,000-seat venue, due to open at Bramley-Moore Dock later this year, will be called the "Hill Dickinson Stadium. It's understood to be one of the biggest naming rights contracts in Europe, with a reported value of between £6 million and £10 million each year.

Hill Dickinson CEO Craig Scott said: "Many months ago, Hill Dickinson was presented with a once-in-a-generation opportunity. We believe deeply in what this project stands for: a transformational vision for Liverpool and its future.

"It couldn’t come at a more opportune time, with the deal providing the perfect platform to launch our new brand to a global audience."

Could the legal sector see more football and law firm partnerships this year?